Type of Resource:
Conference proceedings

Year of Publication:
2017

Indicators:
- Challenges
- Solutions or Strategies
- Trends


Themes:
- Internet Access, Affordability And Use

Author(s): Alison Gillwald (PhD)

Challenges: Generally, the data or public statistics to undertake analyses to determine levels of connectivity and intensity of use are not even available in most African countries. Marginalised communities, including women, remote populations and people with disabilities face greater challenges to accessing the Internet. There remains a lack of relevant data to understand context-specific barriers that are denying large numbers of Africans access to the Internet. Trends: Even African countries with favourable ICT environments struggle to reach the critical mass of 20–30% broadband penetration. Solutions:Existing policies will have to change and sustainable ways of aggregating demand to complement current paid access more comprehensively explored. Over-the-top services, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things have the capacity to bolster economic inclusion and sustainable development

URL
https://researchictafrica.net/publications/Other_publications/2017_Gillwald_From_digital_divide_to_digital_inequality.pdf

Region of Study:


Country of Study:
South Africa,

Study Quality
High